Most military personnel experience frequent redeployment that leads to relationship challenges. Relationship difficulties during deployment can lead to psychological distress and impair functioning when they return home. This research suggests five strategies that promote emotional well-being and relationship satisfaction for spouses who face these challenges: 1) maintaining consistent communication through technology, 2) engaging in shared activities, 3) expressing love and affection, 4) planning for reunions, and 5) maintaining routines.
Maintaining Consistent Communication Through Technology
Technology offers numerous ways to connect, even while apart. Military couples should make plans for daily communicating and discuss how best to stay connected.
Some may prefer texting, video calls, or email, while others may enjoy writing letters or sending care packages. The important thing is to keep the connection going every day.
Engaging in Shared Activities
Sharing interests and hobbies together helps foster closeness. When one partner serves abroad, the other can take up their favorite activity as if they are there too. This way, both feel more connected and less isolated.
Finding new interests can create a sense of adventure and intimacy.
Expressing Love and Affection
Staying physically connected, even at a distance, promotes emotional connection. Some ideas include kissing photos, recording voice messages, exchanging handwritten notes, creating scrapbooks, or leaving sweet surprises. These reminders help bridge physical distance and strengthen attachment.
Planning Reunions
Reuniting after deployment can be stressful, so anticipating it beforehand is essential. Make sure everything is ready, such as travel arrangements, finances, and accommodations. It's also helpful to plan fun activities like dinner dates or weekend getaways. Doing this ensures a smooth transition into the next phase of life.
Maintaining Routines
Routine provides structure and stability during chaotic times. Couples who maintain regular routines have better mental health than those who don't. Whether it's cooking dinner together or working out in the morning, consistency helps them cope with change and stay emotionally resilient.
Maintaining consistent communication through technology, engaging in shared activities, expressing love and affection, planning for reunions, and maintaining routines can promote relational satisfaction and emotional stability despite frequent redeployments. By following these strategies, couples can build stronger bonds that weather any challenge they face.
What strategies foster relational satisfaction and emotional stability despite frequent redeployments?
The individual's resilience and ability to manage stress are crucial for maintaining emotional stability during frequent redeployments. Seeking support from friends, family members, and colleagues can help individuals build a strong network of people who care about them. Additionally, practicing self-care techniques such as meditation, exercise, and hobbies can alleviate anxiety and promote wellbeing.